When those pores get clogged, it creates a pile-up of oil and dead skin cells in the follicle. Soon, bacteria make their way to the blockage and the growth in bacteria causes inflammation. This encourages the development of pimples.

PIMPLE

Acne is considered a subcategory of the oily skin type. It comes in many forms, including black and whiteheads, small papules, pustules and severe nodules and cysts.

If acne is severe and the problems remains without treatment for a prolonged period of time, deep scars may form in the skin. Acne is caused by one or more factors, including excess oil production, poor exfoliation, genetics, stress, diet and hormonal imbalance. Even some of the cosmetic products we use on our face (especially oil-based cosmetics) can also cause and aggravate acne.

Sebum oil (the natural oil produced by our body) is necessary for the skin as it helps to keep the skin lubricated and prevents water loss. Poor cellular turnover combined with excess oil production causes clogging of the pores, leading to acne.

Increased hormonal activity is also another reason why acne is often worse during puberty, pregnancy, pre-menstruation and peri-menopause. Hormonal fluctuations occur during these periods and cause a spike in Sebum production by the sebaceous oil glands. When the skin has too much Sebum, Proponium Bacteria (P bacteria) flourishes on the skin’s surface. The combination of dead skin cells, excess dirt dust and oil all trapped within a small pore creates an environment for P Bacteria to feed on.

The resulting inflammation process releases destructive chemicals into the surrounding skin, resulting in redness, pain and destruction of collagen. If tackling acne, avoid squeezing and popping pimples or injecting them with steroids as this often results in scarring, which is difficult to treat once it occurs.

Acne is a very treatable condition but it takes time, patience and persistence.

Photoageing and Photodamage refer to the changes in appearance and function of the skin caused by repeated exposure to the sun rather than merely the passage of time.

Birthmarks are pigmentation spots present since birth. They are usually located In the deeper layers of the skin and hence may take a significant time to lighten with multiple laser treatments. The good thing about birthmarks is that once you lighten its appearance, most of it should not recur (*pigmentation problems that have a tendency to recur include Melasma).

Melasma is a skin condition characterized by patches of brown and gray patches on both sides of the face. It is most common in women who are pregnant, peri-menopausal or undergoing hormonal replacement therapy. Genetic disposition may play a role in Melasma. If you have a family history of Melasma, you should be especially diligent about protecting you skin from the sun.